Tips From Our Drivers on Driving on Winter Roads
During winter weather, we at Auto Transport take extra care of your vehicle during transport. Hauling cars from state to state every day, carefully loading and unloading every vehicle on a normal day can be challenging, now imagine that task in a snow storm. Our qualified and experienced staff of truckers know the best tricks for dealing with severe weather across all the roads and highways of the continental U.S. That’s why we wanted to share with you some tips that can help any motorist stay safe on the road, anywhere in the country.
Start Slow
Take time to get the feel of the road, you want to ease into the throttle to determine traction. When braking and turning do so gently. Use your headlights, even during the daytime.
Ice On Your Windows = Ice On The Road
Ice forms more quickly and stays longer on bridges, overpasses, and even shaded spots on the road after the rest of the road is clear. Exit ramps are not traveled as frequently and can freeze rapidly. You can also check by watching the vehicle ahead; if there’s no tire spray, there’s probably ice on the road.
Brakes Are The Great Equalizer
It doesn’t matter if you’re in a small car or a big truck, no vehicle can stop or steer better on ice. Remember, the larger the vehicle, the longer the stopping distance.
No Cruising
Do not use cruise control. If your car hydroplanes or skids, the car can accelerate and spin the wheels as it attempts to maintain the constant speed.
Winterize Your Car
Did you know diesel becomes gel when it gets really cold? Temperatures alter the way all vehicles function. The easiest way to avoid being stranded with a car that won’t start is by testing your battery before the deep freeze. Keep your gas tank as full as possible, to help prevent condensation (water) in the tank and a fuel line freeze. Replace your windshield fluid with one rated to the lowest temperature you can find and ensure the wipers won’t streak by checking that they are not cracked or broken. It doesn’t hurt to carry an extra gallon of antifreeze.
Check For Road Conditions
Current road and weather conditions for the nation are always available online. Check your state’s Department of Transportation Web site for local roadway incident information. Find national traffic and road closure information on the U.S. Department of transportation Web site. If you aren’t driving far, it’s still a good idea to watch your local news weather or listen to the radio for information about your local road conditions.
Stay Cautious
If you take away just one piece of advice from this, this is it. The number one strategy for winter driving is always caution. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination. If there are four-wheelers spun out, the roads are bad. If you start seeing trucks and other transport vehicles pulled over, it’s absolutely time to get off the roadway.
Stay warm and safe on all your travels! If you’re looking to transport your vehicle this winter, call us at Auto Transport 123!